An unusual incident unfolded at Surat Airport when a swarm of bees caused a significant delay for an IndiGo flight bound for Jaipur. The Airbus A320, scheduled to depart at 4:20 PM, was delayed by over an hour due to the bees congregating near the aircraft’s open luggage door. This unexpected event left passengers waiting as airport staff scrambled to address the situation.

As passengers boarded and luggage was being loaded, the bees settled on the open luggage door, creating a unique challenge for the ground crew. Initial attempts to disperse the bees using smoke proved ineffective, prompting the airport authorities to call in the fire department. A fire engine arrived on the scene and began spraying water on the affected area. This intervention successfully dispersed the bees, allowing the flight to finally take off at 5:26 PM, after a one-hour delay.

An IndiGo spokesperson explained that the delay was due to circumstances beyond their control, emphasizing that all standard protocols were followed to ensure passenger safety and comfort. The spokesperson stated, “Flight 6E-784 Surat-Jaipur was delayed due to a bee incident, which is something not under our control, so flight was departed post clearance.”

This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel and the challenges airlines face in maintaining schedules amidst unforeseen events. While delays are often attributed to technical or weather-related issues, this bee-related delay serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictable influence on human activities.